In the past, the various factors related to influencing the performance of a vehicle, were determined by a mechanic, setting air-fuel mixture ratio, ignition timing and the idling speed. Control of these factors was by mechanical and pneumatic methods. Records show, that one of the earliest attempts at using automation for multiple engine control was performed by BMW in 1939. This could be regarded as the introduction of the Power-train Control Module (PCM) and the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
The Grand Cherokee was produced by Jeep in 1992, with the intention of replacing the Cherokee model. However, due to the increasing consumer demand in the “SUV” market segment, the producers elected to retain both models. The motoring lifestyle has changed dramatically since those experimental times, with cost effectiveness and driving conditions enforcing manufacturers continually to upgrade their production models. This has created a need for autonomous inter-relation between the various engine control units, or modules and the TCM.
The concept of this device, which is located under the hood on the driver’s side of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, controls the entire transmission electronic operation. It is designed to receive information related to the operation of the vehicle, from direct and indirect sources of input. Based on this information, it will determine the operating mode of the transmission and the correct shift schedule and points, for the road conditions prevailing at the time and the demands of the driver.
The overall and automated control of a vehicle is determined by the PCM, the engine control unit that monitors a series of actuators, to ensure the maintenance of high performance levels of an internal combustion engine. This computer has the responsibility of controlling and combining the effectiveness of the ignition, emission and fuel systems. It also includes the cohesive actions of the other auxiliary systems that are necessary in the operation of the drive train. Working in accord with related controllers, the computer detects any malfunction in the drive train or related systems. A code designating the fault will be generated and remain until it is corrected, or cleared.
The transmission controller is naturally related to automatic automobiles. This is because of the controlling factor of the vehicle, which in a manual shift model is reliant on the driver. The computer is the determining factor of an automated vehicle. It controls the changing of the gears without any contribution from the driver; apart from the accelerator and braking requirements. The vehicles of today are predominantly controlled by the TCM and associated, sophisticated technology, all designed for improved operation. The vehicle manufacturers are making a highly significant contribution towards the safety provided by the vehicle and the effective protection of diagnosing the performance, to ensure timely maintenance.
Automobile computer systems of today have become part of everyday driving and to the average person; they are a normal feature of their vehicle. The Jeep Grand Cherokee TCM is complex, with a relatively impressive number of sophisticated components. The benefits provided, and the enhancement of a safe driving experience, has helped in making the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a particular and personal mode of transport for any occasion.
